2027 Kia Telluride – First Look Review (All-New Second Generation)
If you’re in the market for a midsize three-row family SUV, the Kia Telluride has been a runaway success since its launch in 2019. Dealers were charging over sticker, demand was higher than supply, and Kia suddenly had a segment-defining product on their hands.
For 2027, Kia is introducing an all-new second-generation Telluride, and they are clearly aiming to redefine this segment once again.
Pricing & Launch Timeline
Pricing is not yet announced, but here’s what we can estimate:
| Model Year | Starting Price (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Base Trims | ~$37,500 |
| X-Line / Mid Trims | ~$46,000 |
| X-Pro (shown) | ~$58,000 (fully loaded) |
Launch timeline:
U.S. showrooms: Early 2026
Model year: 2027 Telluride
Powertrain (Expected)
Although Kia didn’t open the hood or share full details yet, based on shared platform with Palisade:
New 3.5L V6, approx. 287 hp / 260 lb-ft
8-speed automatic
A hybrid variant confirmed, likely using:
2.5L Turbo + Hybrid system
Expected output: ~339 hp
Expected fuel efficiency: 29–31 MPG
Exterior Design – Bold & More Premium
Kia has evolved the design without losing the Telluride identity. It is bolder, more premium, and visually closer to a Range Rover than ever before.
Highlights:
This model is the top-trim X-Pro, focused on off-roading.
Shown in Terrain Brown Matte. Kia will also offer a glossy version.
Digitized tiger-nose grille, wider and more imposing, with matte and gloss-black accents.
Amber dual signature LED DRLs with vertically positioned headlamps.
Aggressive bumper design with improved approach angles.
Strong off-road cues – beefy brown recovery tow hooks, rugged lower bumper.
Ground Clearance & Capability:
X-Pro trim gets a suspension lift to 9.1 inches – higher than the Hyundai Palisade XRT (8.4 inches).
LED fog lights on the lower bumper.
Kia wants lighting to become the “face” of their new vehicle design direction, not just the grille.
Side Profile & Dimensions:
Built on updated architecture shared with the new Hyundai Palisade.
Wheelbase stretched by 3 in; overall length up by 2.3 in.
Approx. 199 in length
117 in wheelbase
Clean Range-Rover-like shape with flush retractable door handles.
Wheel options: 18 / 20 / 21 inches
(X-Pro gets 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tyres – 255/60/R18.)Black roof rails, black mirrors, subtle floating roof design.
Rear View:
Boxy, clean design with strong Range Rover vibes.
Integrated roof spoiler with hidden rear wiper.
Blacked-out Kia badge (gloss finish).
X-Pro badging + beefy orange tow hooks.
Power tailgate as standard.
Cargo Space (estimated similar to current model):
20 cu ft behind 3rd row
46 cu ft behind 2nd row
87 cu ft with all rows folded
Underfloor storage included
Third row still manual folding, not powered like the Palisade.
Interior & Features – More Luxurious Than Ever
The first-gen Telluride was already considered premium. The 2027 version takes it even further, borrowing design cues from Kia’s flagship EV9.
Cabin highlights:
New 30-inch curved screen setup (12.3″ infotainment + 12.3″ digital cluster + 5″ climate screen).
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
High-end leather upholstery options:
Black with suede inserts
Tuscan Umber / Navy
New Blackberry interior (purple + beige accents)
Material Quality & Features:
Soft-touch dash with faux stitching.
Engineered carbon fiber trim (optional engineered wood trim).
Flat top and bottom steering wheel.
Massaging driver seat (Ergo Motion).
Heated + ventilated front and second-row seats.
Ambient lighting strip across dashboard.
Ultra-suede headliner.
Panoramic glass roof (front section opens; rear is fixed).
Smart Storage:
Wireless charger
Deep cupholder compartment with lid
Center console storage
Additional storage space accessible from 2nd row
Second Row Experience
Captain seats on X-Pro model (7-seater configuration).
Approximately 42 inches of legroom (same as Palisade).
Retractable window sunshades.
Slide + recline adjustments.
Heated and ventilated second-row seats.
A clever touch:
Center console has shallow front storage because a secondary storage compartment slides out toward the second row.
Third Row Experience
Accessible via one-touch button, even with a child seat attached.
Estimated ~32–34 inches of legroom (depending on second-row position).
Seating for three, making Telluride an 8-seater (in bench-seat trims).
USB ports, air vents, and LED lighting.
Driving Experience (Prototype Observation)
While full driving impressions are pending, early feedback from short movement inside the studio area indicates:
Elevated seating position gives commanding view
Powertrain expected to offer smooth and refined acceleration
Hybrid trim likely to become the bestselling version due to rising demand for efficient three-row SUVs
X-Pro suspension lift and A/T tyres add noticeable confidence on rough surfaces
Verdict
The 2027 Kia Telluride continues what made the original a success: space, road presence, comfort, and a sharper design with more premium technology and materials.
It looks like a Range Rover, drives like a luxury SUV, but will likely be priced closer to mainstream rivals.
If Kia prices it well, they are positioned to dominate this segment once again.
Frequently Asked Questions: 2027 Kia Telluride
1. What is the 2027 Kia Telluride?
The 2027 Kia Telluride is the next generation of Kia’s flagship three-row SUV. It continues the strengths of the previous model including space, road presence, and comfort while adding a sharper exterior design and more premium technology inside.
2. What is new in the 2027 Kia Telluride exterior design?
The new model features a more refined and premium design direction. The styling has a squared-off body and luxury-inspired proportions giving it a look similar to high-end SUVs like the Range Rover.
3. Does the 2027 Telluride offer a premium interior?
Yes. The interior now uses higher-quality materials and upgraded technology. The cabin feel is more premium, supporting the Telluride’s positioning as a family luxury SUV without a luxury brand price tag.
4. How many seats does the 2027 Kia Telluride have?
The Telluride continues as a three-row SUV with seating for seven or eight passengers depending on configuration.
5. How does the 2027 Kia Telluride drive?
The Telluride delivers a smooth and comfortable driving experience similar to premium luxury SUVs. Ride quality and cabin comfort remain core strengths.
6. What will the price of the 2027 Kia Telluride be?
Pricing has not been officially announced, but based on the model’s positioning, Kia is expected to price it competitively against mainstream three-row SUVs while offering luxury-level refinement.
7. When will the 2027 Kia Telluride be available?
Expected launch timelines may vary by market. Global sales are projected to begin after official reveal stages, with deliveries expected to follow afterward.
